After a two-decade career, Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna, a three-time Olympic veteran, announced his retirement. "A farewell... but not the end," Bopanna wrote in an emotional Instagram post. He wrote, looking back on his career, "After 20 incredible years on tour, it's time. I'm hanging up my racquet for good.
The 44-year-old, who started playing tennis in Coorg, India, reflected on his modest beginnings, saying, "It feels surreal to be standing under the lights of the biggest arenas in the world, chasing dreams on cracked courts, jogging through coffee estates to build stamina, and chopping blocks of wood to strengthen my serve."

Bopanna, who is well-known for his strong serve and success in doubles, showed his sincere appreciation for the game that helped him mould his life. "For me, tennis has been more than just a game; it has given me strength when I was broken, purpose when I was lost, and faith when others doubted me."
"Every time I stepped onto a court, it taught me perseverance, resilience to rise, to fight again when everything inside me said I couldn't – and most importantly, reminded me why I started and who I am," he said, reflecting on the lessons he had learnt throughout his illustrious career.
Bopanna concluded by expressing his gratitude to his followers and admirers with the straightforward words, "Thank you."

It's important to remember that Bopanna played with Alexander Bublik at the Paris Masters 1000, which was his last appearance. The two were defeated by John Peers and James Tracy 5-7, 6-2, 10-8 in the Round of 32.
An innovator in Indian tennis, Rohan Bopanna
Bopanna, who is recognised around the world for his prowess in doubles and mixed doubles, is considered one of India's best tennis players. He had an impressive career that lasted more than 20 years and was well-known for his strong serve and deft net play.
The 45-year-old, who won the mixed doubles gold at the 2017 French Open, has played for India in three Olympic Games and multiple Davis Cup matches.

Bopanna achieved unprecedented success in 2024 when he won the men's doubles title at the Australian Open and, a few days later, became the 43rd-ranked player in the world.
In 2017, he added another Grand Slam to his record when he and Gabriela Dabrowski won the mixed doubles title at Roland Garros.
The "Indo-Pak Line"
Bopanna's collaboration with Pakistani Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi was a significant period in his career. The two became known as the "Indo-Pak Express," which represents international sports friendship. They made it to the finals of the 2010 US Open, which was their most remarkable run and helped to reintroduce Asian tennis on the world stage.